Metroplex Sprint Triathlon - TriathlonSprint

The swim was hard - very choppy water and strong current. I knew to start at the back and out of the way so I would not get beat up too bad. Unfortunately, the second wave caught me and proceded to swim over me and into me. I had to swim around a kayak that moved in to help another swimmer catch his breath - I was all for him not drowning but it did kind of create a detour as the kayaker was positioned across the swimming path and not with it. I then failed to change my breathing over after the last turn and took in a huge mouthful of water - yummy! After choking and gagging I was on my way again. I also had to stop and defog my goggles so I could see where I was going. Just a few delays but I survived the swim - even talked myself down from a panic attack at the first buoy turn. I was very grateful that I had been at the lake the week before for an open water swim and the conditions were very similar - windy and choppy. This helped me get through it.

Swim faster

It was pretty slippery getting out of the water - they could have extended the mats a little further down the ramp to help with this. Other than that all was good.

Go faster

I enjoyed the bike very much - maybe a little too much since it was like I was out on a leisurely afternoon sightseeing ride. Since I was in the first swim wave I started the bike ahead of most of the other racers - not to worry for them however - they all caught me. I am now very familiar with the proper way to be passed. I do not like to go fast on the bike and tend to brake on the downhill as well - a bit afraid of road rash (not that I saw anyone crash). The race director told us we could sing - so I did. I also couldn't get the image out of my head of the Wicked Witch of the West pedaling away so I starting saying outloud to those passing me "I'm gonna get you my little pretty!" - but I never did catch anyone. I'll have to try to pass someone in the next race.

Ride faster

No report here - no problems or complaints.

I usually run just fine after a bike ride but I was really tired and not very happy with my run time. But I didn't walk - although I really wanted to - but I probably should have because the lady who passed me at the end wasn't even jogging - she was speed walking. I finally managed to pass a few people on the run. I was never so happy to see a finish line!

Run faster

Got a bagel (bananas would be nice next year) and drank some Gatorade, hugged my family and friends. Got a little bit of tunnel vision / wavy peripheral vision after the race. It was not very hot so I didn't hydrate enough during the race. Sat down on the grass and rested.


I'm a big chicken on the bike.


A good event for a new-b like me. I liked the fact that it was all self-contained. Important note: I wasn't in a rush to leave but bad news for anyone who was - the park was closed to in and out traffic until 10 am. I really enjoyed my first race experience. I managed to not come in last. My two goals were to not drown and not finish last! I know, I am an overachiever. Can't wait for my next race!